Missouri again is getting hit with ice, though it seems to be bouncing upward this time, and moving slower than expected. The National Weather Service still has issued a winter storm warning for Western and Northern Missouri, with an ice storm warning for parts of Missouri. Northern Missouri…around the cities of Maryville, Tarkio, Rockport, Grant City, Mound City and Oregon…has been coated with one-half to three-quarters of an inch of ice. A mixture of freezing rain and ice is moving across the northern third of the state. Ice accumulations have also been reported in St. Joseph, Gallatin, Trenton, Unionville and Kirksville. The ice has caused widespread power outages in those areas. This weather forecast is expected to hold throughout the day, tapering off this evening. The Weather Service says temperatures could help out some parts of the state, keeping ice to a minimum. Keep listening to your local Missourinet affiliate for the latest in your area.

Many parts of the state are recovering from the nasty winter weather that has caused outages for varying lengths of time. And, the State Fire Marshal’s Office wants to make sure people are coping safely with the power outages.

Assistant State Fire Marshal Greg Carrell says Missourians have to be reminded of the potential fire and carbon monoxide hazards created by ice storms and other weather that knocks out electricity. Candles, for instance, can pose fire threats. And, generators can leave people open to carbon monoxide poisoning. Carrell says it is important for each home to have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.

Download/Listen: Steve Walsh report (:60 MP3)